The book is an anthology of military poems inspired by his appreciation of military history as well as his experiences serving.
Major Carroll was passionate about poetry even before he joined the army.
His first poem was about the Ash Wednesday fires in 1983 and his first military poem, Anzac Morn, was inspired by his uncle who was held in Changi prison, a Japanese prisoner of war camp in World War II.
Since then he has gone on to write and publish numerous bush and military poems, with an audio piece of Anzac Morn featured at the Australian War Memorial.
Major Carroll uses his poetry to educate people on the truths of war and the stories of past battles that people often don’t know about.
“On Anzac Day there’s a lot of battles Australian forces fought in that people know the name of, but not what occurred. So, some of the poems are about educating people about that,” he said.
“I write from a personal level, not my personal experience.
“That’s so people can have an understanding of the past.”
Major Carroll will be cruising down the Murray River in his handmade paddle boat from Albury to Mannum, South Australia, in August to raise money for Legacy.
“All the proceeds go to Legacy. Legacy helps out a lot of families and widows of those that served and died in service. It’s just what I wanted to do,” he said.
“I live by the motto there’s more good than bad in the world and good will always win over bad — and if you look at history, that’s what happens.“
Major Carroll will be reading poetry from Brothers in Arms on Tuesday, April 26, from 6.30pm at the Nagambie library.
His book is also available to buy there, with all proceeds going to Legacy.
If you’re interested in coming along, contact the library on 1300 374 765 or email nagambie@gvrlc.vic.gov.au to RSVP.
If you would like to donate to the fundraiser, go to pblegacy.online
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